I know I haven't played the beta in a week, but my last few v1.05 games reminded me that the random map generator sucks, and still sucks in v1.09.  The problem is two-fold. 

1)  You can get hosed at your start point.  For example, you should have AT LEAST two phase lanes from your HW (I think 3 should be mandatory).  However, there have been numerous occasions where you only get 1, or the 2nd phase lane goes to something dead (like a dead roid or a plasma storm with no neutrals).  Another problem is that you don't get a roid.  After complaining and moaning and SCOUTING, you find your roid 5 jumps away but RIGHT NEXT to your HW.  Obviously, this was supposed to be connected to the HW, but the random map generator screwed you and forgot to put the phase lane in.  Example, notice how screwed red is because the random map generator did not put in a phase lane to the roid?  It obviously was supposed to:

Or, checkout this wonderful example of a start that was so absolutely messed up the host decided to remake:

2) Some planets are right on top of each other.  Sometimes this just sucks because it is hard to get in and SEE the planet and the gravity well.  It sucks even worse when your capital ship gets stuck in the gravity well and can't figure out how to phase jump out (this happened to me twice in 400+ games, so it is rare).

My point is, make the random map generator give each player an equal opportunity, or at least not completely hose them.

I'm off my soap box, I'm done now.  Please comment.